Mandatory high-visibility vests

Watch out for high-visibility vests!

From July 1, 2014, high-visibility vests will be mandatory for all drivers. From now on, every driver must have a high-visibility vest in their car. Previously, the high-visibility vest requirement only applied to commercially used vehicles. At least one high-visibility vest must be carried in the vehicle. The automobile clubs recommend carrying one high-visibility vest per vehicle occupant. In the event of a breakdown, especially on highways, each passenger should be provided with a vest.  This increases the visibility of each individual person. This regulation is already mandatory abroad and in most EU countries. The high-visibility vest must comply with EN 471 or EN ISO 20471:2013.
A sign with a reference to the standards should be attached to the vest. Reflective yellow or red vests are permitted. The vest should be placed within easy reach so that you have immediate access to it in the event of a breakdown. If you are not wearing a reflective vest, you will be fined 15 euros in Germany. This is comparatively cheap here. In Portugal, the fine is up to 600 euros.